Navigating through diverse countries in Asia, each with its own language, currency, and transportation systems, can be overwhelming. Thankfully, with the right phone apps, you can simplify your travels and make the journey smoother.
Whether you’re booking transportation, finding the best hostels, or keeping in touch with loved ones, these 24 essential apps will help you stay connected, safe, and organized as you explore the wonders of Asia.
Let’s dive into the must-have apps that every backpacker should download before embarking on their adventure.
Related blog posts to read:
- The Best Travel Route & Itinerary For Sri Lanka
- Ultimate South Thailand Travel Route: Phi Phi, Phuket & More
- Floating Villages Of Cambodia: Everything You Need To Know
- How to Travel From Laos to Thailand by 2-Day Slow Boat
- 26 of the Best Things to See & Do in Kuala Lumpur
1. PickMe (Sri Lanka)
A ride-hailing app that offers convenient, reliable, and affordable transportation options in Sri Lanka. Whether you’re exploring Colombo or heading to the countryside, it’s the best way to navigate and avoid haggling with local drivers.
2. Grab
The go-to app for Southeast Asia, Grab provides everything from rides to food delivery. It’s one of the most essential apps for transportation, especially in countries like Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, where taxis may not be readily available or as reliable.
3. InDrive (Thailand)
A unique ride-hailing service where passengers can negotiate the fare with the driver. Ideal for budget-conscious travellers who want more control over pricing and are looking to avoid expensive taxi services.
InDrive saved us a lot of money during our time in Thailand, and was the cheapest taxi app by far!
4. Currency Converter
A must-have app for real-time currency exchange rates. It helps travellers keep track of different currencies as they cross borders, ensuring they know the value of their money and avoid being overcharged.
5. Google – Translate function
This app is invaluable for breaking down language barriers. Its translation capabilities allow you to communicate easily with locals, read menus, and understand signs in countries where English is not widely spoken.
6. Google Maps
Whether you’re hiking through remote areas or exploring bustling cities, Google Maps is essential for navigation. It helps backpackers find their way, discover landmarks, and locate accommodation or restaurants.
7. 12Go Asia
Perfect for booking bus, train, and ferry tickets across Asia, this app simplifies travel planning. It ensures you can secure transportation in advance, avoiding long queues and potential scams.
Related blog post to read: Thailand Sleeper Train: Everything You Need To Know
8. Naver (South Korea)
South Korea’s most popular search engine and mapping app. Essential for navigating cities like Seoul, where Google Maps isn’t as effective. It provides detailed routes, transportation options, and real-time directions.
9. Revolut
A modern banking app that makes handling money abroad simple. Revolut allows travellers to convert currencies at competitive rates, track expenses, and avoid international banking fees.
Sign up for a Revolut account here!
10. City Mapper
This app provides detailed public transportation information, helping you easily navigate cities like Tokyo, Singapore, and Hong Kong. It’s perfect for understanding metro systems and bus routes without hassle.
11. Safety Tips (Japan)
One of the most essential apps when traveling in Japan, this app provides real-time alerts about natural disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons, and tsunamis, ensuring travellers stay safe in a region prone to such events.
12. Jetpac eSIM
This app allows backpackers to purchase eSIMs, offering reliable, affordable data plans across different countries in Asia. It’s a great alternative to buying physical SIM cards at every border.
Get $5 off your Jetpac eSIM package when you use my referral code: 4293IOA9!
13. Monzo
A great banking app for UK travellers, Monzo offers fee-free spending abroad and allows you to withdraw cash, making it easy to handle finances while backpacking across Asia without hefty charges.
Sign up for a Monzo account here!
14. Airalo eSIM
Like Jetpac, Airalo provides eSIM solutions that allow travellers to stay connected without dealing with traditional SIM cards. It’s useful across multiple countries and offers a range of affordable data plans.
15. GetYourGuide
GetYourGuide is fantastic for discovering and booking local tours, activities, and excursions in cities across Asia. It ensures travellers can find reputable experiences and avoid tourist traps.
Related blog post to read: Lanna Kingdom: the Best Ethical Elephant Sanctuary in Chiang Mai
16. Booking.com
One of the most reliable apps for booking hotels, guesthouses, and other accommodations. With detailed reviews, flexible booking options, and widespread availability, it’s perfect for finding accommodation on the go.
Related blog post to read: Incredible Sri Lanka Hotels: Everywhere You Need to Stay
17. Hostel World
For budget backpackers, Hostel World is the top choice for booking affordable hostels. It provides extensive reviews, maps, and deals, making it easier to find budget accommodations wherever you are.
Related blog post to read: The Best Hostel to Stay in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
18. Been
A fun travel tracker app that lets backpackers log the countries and cities they’ve visited. It’s a great way to keep track of your adventures and share your travel map with friends and family.
19. Nord VPN
Internet access in some countries may be restricted or unsafe. Nord VPN ensures a secure connection and bypasses geo-blocking, allowing access to all your favourite websites while protecting your data.
20. WhatsApp
An essential communication app for staying in touch with friends and family back home. It’s widely used worldwide and offers free messaging, voice, and video calls over Wi-Fi or mobile data.
21. Line (Thailand)
Popular across Thailand and Japan, Line is a messaging app that’s heavily used by locals. Downloading Line allows you to communicate with locals more easily and stay in the loop with regional updates.
22. Gojek (Bali)
A multi-service app like Grab, but mainly for Indonesia. It offers transportation, food delivery, and even logistics services. Backpackers in Bali will find it helpful for navigating the island and ordering meals.
Related blog post to read: The Best Private Villa to Stay in Canggu, Bali
23. AirBnB
This app is a great alternative to traditional accommodations, offering unique stays, homestays, and apartments that allow travellers to immerse themselves in local culture while staying on budget.
24. Capcut
For travel bloggers or content creators, Capcut is a powerful video editing tool that allows you to quickly edit videos on the go. It’s perfect for creating stunning travel content to share on social media.
Leave a Reply